Teacher’s+Lounge

As Chinese teachers, we tend to “hide” ourselves in our own classroom or office, we are normally very busy and working very hard. We forget we do need to build the “关系guanxi” with our colleagues too. Having good relationship with colleagues will help you understand school culture, policies, tips on dealing with students and administrators. Some of the schools are fading out other languages to put Chinese language in the school, the underlining tension is there unless you let your colleagues know that you are not a threat, you are their friend. Teachers’ lounge sometimes can be a gossip place, taking a neutral stand is always a wise move. For a period of time, you will find out who likes to gossip and who doesn’t, make friends with the group that will lift your spirit rather than putting your spirit down. It's important to make the effort to attend after school get together with colleagues, such as BBQ, fun night, etc.